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• Recovered timber from demolition is a reliable structural material. • Visual strength grading standards do not properly grade recovered timber. • Longitudinal vibration accurately estimates mechanical properties. • Non-destructive probing methods allow accurate prediction of recovered timber density. An increasing amount of timber is recovered from demolition and can be value-added through reuse or recycling for structural applications. This study investigates the possibilities of using visual and non-destructive parameters to estimate the mechanical properties of recovered timber so that it can be graded for new applications. A batch of nineteen recovered Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) rafters was studied. The application of two visual grading standards produced a rejection of 95% of the specimens. Estimation of modulus of elasticity was performed using ultrasound and vibration NDT techniques, with determination coefficients (R2) of 0.66 and 0.75 respectively. In the case of bending strength estimation, R2 were 0.60 and 0.77 respectively. Visual knottiness parameter was only a statistically significant variable in the estimation model of local modulus of elasticity. Density was estimated using drilling chips extraction and drilling penetration resistance with R2 of 0.66 and 0.58 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this paper is to define the reference conditions and to propose modification factors to standardize the variables recorded by different nondestructive techniques. This practice will make it possible to generate consistent practical data while developing a procedure for the standardization of timber structure assessment. The nondestructive variables analyzed are: time of flight, natural frequency, pullout resistance, penetration depth and drill resistance. The factors which affect these variables are: moisture content, temperature, size/length and positioning of sensors and angle to the grain. Reference conditions are defined and equations and modifications factors are proposed to help in the evaluation of existing timber structures and decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cross laminated timber from reclaimed timber has good structural properties. • Visual strength grading standards do not properly grade reclaimed timber. • Bending strength in CLT from reclaimed timber is lower than in CLT from new timber. • Transversal vibration accurately estimates the modulus of elasticity of CLT panels. The demolition sector generates a large amount of timber waste that could be directly reused or recycled in other products for structural purposes. Timber should be graded before it is used for structural purposes, and visual strength grading standards designed for new timber do not properly grade recovered timber. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is now one of the most common wood products used in construction. CLT would therefore be a good option for recycling timber due to the high quantity of material used in CLT manufacturing. This paper investigates the possibilities of using recovered timber from demolition to manufacture CLT. Twelve CLT panels from recovered and new timber were manufactured and tested. The static modulus of elasticity was found to be the same between recovered and new timber, while the bending strength of CLT from recovered timber was lower than it was for CLT from new timber. Non-destructive testing for the estimation of mechanical properties of boards and CLT panels was successfully developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Strength capacity of an 18th century timber structure using NDT verified with load tests. • Structural behavior of the floor slab considering the transverse stiffness of the system. • Strength estimation (bending, compression and shear) through their relationship with stiffness. • Verification of structural safety in accordance with Eurocode 5 Timber structures. The timber structural members of a seven-story building from the end of the 18th century were evaluated following a procedure based on previous research works. The structure consisted of timber-framed brick walls and heavy timber floors with mortar filling. Non-destructive measurements were taken in 13 sampling areas of the floors and framed walls. Detailed measurements of at least 3 pieces in each sample were taken (stress wave Time-of-Flight and probing tests). Mean density and modulus of elasticity values and characteristic values of bending and compression strength were estimated. On-site load tests were carried out on three floor slabs to deduce their actual bending stiffness and compare it with estimation by NDT. They behaved more rigidly than expected, which is explained by floor screed stiffness, the transverse stiffness effect and possible semi-rigid connection behaviour at the supports. Structural verification determined the required strength of the critical members to compare this with the estimated strengths, showing a correct safety level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]